In my two decades of writing about alcohol, I’ve encountered whiskeys at many different price points. I’ve sipped bottom shelf bargains, middle of the road gems, top shelf treasures, and uncomfortably expensive, long-aged unicorns. And while it’s difficult to beat the complexity of a well-made, decades old bourbon, I’ve learned that there’s always room for an inexpensive, versatile sipping and mixing whiskey as well.
Even if you’re a collector of rare whiskey, you’re probably not going to crack open a bottle of E.H. Taylor or Stagg to mix into a cocktail. Affordable whiskeys are made for that. But just because a whiskey is inexpensive and hasn’t spent decades mellowing in a charred barrel hidden deep inside a Buffalo Trace rick house doesn’t mean that it’s not worth your time. There are countless bargain bourbons that land in the right ratio of price to quality.
One of my favorites is Old Bardstown Estate Bottled. Not only is this the best value bottle from the iconic Willett Distillery, but Old Bardstown is the inaugural Willett Family Bourbon, made with the original family recipe. This timeless expression begins with a mash bill of 72 percent corn, 15 percent barley, and 13 percent rye. After distillation, it enters the barrels at a robust 125-proof. It’s aged for at least four years but typically matures between six and eight years before being bottled at 101-proof.
The result is a surprisingly complex, multi-layered whiskey that begins with a nose of candied orange peels, almond cookies, dried fruits, gentle spices, and rich oak. A sip reveals hints of toasted vanilla beans, licorice, molasses cookies, candied nuts, ripe berries, caramelized sugar, and oak. The finish is a welcoming, warming mix of sweetness and spice. It’s the type of whiskey that’s cheap enough to mix but good enough to sip neat.
You might assume that Old Bardstown was simply named after the bourbon-centric city of Bardstown, KY. But it was actually named for an historic racehorse named Old Bardstown. The label prominently features a horse.
I didn’t even get to the best part yet. While I mentioned that this whiskey was inexpensive, I didn’t detail just how cheap it is. A bottle of this versatile bourbon whiskey can be yours for between $20 to $40 depending on where you live. Think about that for value. There are just a handful of comparable bourbons for twice that price. Also, while Old Bardstown Bottled-in-Bond is only available in Kentucky, Old Bardstown Estate Bottled is available in a good portion of the country.
Now that you’ve learned a little about Old Bardstown Estate Bottled Bourbon it’s time to actually buy a bottle—or two—to add to your home bar or bar cart. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. This is a surprisingly well-balanced, complex whiskey that’s perfectly suitable for mixing and sipping. There’s a reason this expression has countless fans.
Old Bardstown Estate is cheap enough to mix into cocktails but complex enough to drink neat.
Travis Kelce’s magic ‘stache may not have brought him a third Super Bowl ring this year, but the grooming choice did make him look ready to be cast in a reboot of Tombstone. And thanks to other mustachioed celebrities like Justin Bieber and Jason Sudeikis, a new facial hair reality has set in: These guys are bringing the mustache back in a big way. But what you might not understand is the careful art of using mustache wax to perfect the look—and the best mustache wax to get you there.
The difference between ’staches of the past and flavor savors of today is that you no longer need Tom Selleck levels of charisma to pull off this vintage, now revived look. You just need to mind your mustache wax.
According to Robin Staz, a barber at Beardbrand Barbershop in Austin, TX, mustache wax is a styling product often made with beeswax and other ingredients that act as a pomade for your face, preventing flyaways that are a result of dry hair and skin.
“Men need it to maintain style, prevent hairs from getting into the mouth, and keep hair and skin healthy,” Staz explains.
Master Barber (that’s a legit title) Cody Renegar echoes that sentiment. “It’s a good idea to use mustache wax because it prevents irritation, moisturizes the face, helps control the facial hair, and helps it look thicker,” he says.
In other words, the right mustache wax can make all the difference between a dirtbag ‘stache (you know the vibe) and a classy upper lip.
With upwards of 600 waxes available on Amazon alone and a range of reviews, it can be hard to tell which products will leave your ’stache with a smooth, workable texture and which will leave a clumpy mess. Here, Staz and Renegar share their favorite mustache waxes on the market and how to use them to avoid the latter. While we landed on Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax as the overall best wax of its kind, you’ll no doubt find something that suits your facial hair fancies.
Reuzel Stache Mustache Wax is Renegar’s favorite overall pick because the beeswax-based formula is pliable but not sticky and has “a good hold that isn’t too much.” Whether you want to prevent a few flyaway hairs from your chevron or go full handlebar, this affordable, versatile wax “checks all the boxes.”
Staz (a Dutchman himself) agrees that the Netherlands-based company offers a “great line of styling products.” The natural orange and mint scent will also leave your mustache looking and smell good for anyone who wants to get close to it. Or, if you’re looking for more bourbon and sandalwood notes, try the brand’s Bourbon Sidecar Mustache Wax.
For anyone who doesn’t want who doesn’t want to spend more than $5 on a styling product, Staz suggests Clubman Wax. “It’s an inexpensive option and will help you see if you enjoy maintaining your mustache,” he says. Made with natural beeswax and complete with a brush and applicator, “There’s not much to lose in testing it.”
Renegar adds that the Clubman brand has been a staple in barbershops since 1810 for good reason. “It’s simple, classic, and not too pricey.”
Mustache newbies who don’t know where to start should look no further than Firehouse Wax. The fragrance-free formula “has a natural look and a buildable texture, so it’s good for beginners to play with,” Renegar says.
Staz refers to Firehouse as “an OG in the mustache space,” having formulated the wax back in 2006. Even though it’s been around for nearly two decades, the brand still makes waxes by hand in small batches.
When it comes to taming particularly unruly flyaways or nailing a specific ’stache style, Renegar points to Fisticuffs Wax. The naturally scented, dye-free beeswax formula “has a powerful hold that lasts all day, and your mustache still stays soft and shiny,” he explains.
Staz agrees that Firehouse is as affordable as it is easy to apply, making it a smart pick for busy men who don’t have time to mess with a rogue mustache throughout the day.
If you want a mustache wax that leaves room for twirling and other movement but still has some hold to it, then Badger Mustache Wax is the best move. The combination of shea butter and beeswax provides a “nice hold that also conditions your hair,” Renegar says, leaving it soft but under control. Staz seconds this recommendation, especially for anyone looking for a natural option.
The biggest difference between mustache wax and beard balm is that balm has a more gentle hold while conditioning the beard. But Honest Amish Beard Balm is the best of both worlds for anyone looking to consolidate styling products. “It is great for the beard-mustache combo because it’s perfect for taming beard flyaways and molding a mustache, depending on how much you use,” Renegar says. Hand-crafted with natural, organic ingredients, it’s a one-stop source for good-looking and -smelling facial hair.
Whether you’re looking for subtle curls or to go full handlebar guy—or you’re trying to replicate that speakeasy-style bartender style—Renegar recommends Death Grip. As the name implies, it’s a strong and tacky formula, yet it’s still pliable enough to style a long, curly mustache and hold it in place.
Staz agrees but warns that curled mustaches are not for the faint of heart… or lip. “This product is for experienced mustache wearers only.” He also suggests setting aside extra time to style this advanced ‘stache and using a hair dryer. (Mustache enthusiasts consign the hair dryer method.) “An extra strong hold mustache takes extra work to apply,” Staz explains. “That being said, nothing will be better at locking in those perfect curls than this wax.”
Although other natural products are on this list, Renegar points to Burt’s Bees for a no-nonsense natural option for under $10. Made from beeswax and natural oils, the product “has a light hold, but tames flyaways and keeps hair in place.” If your mustache just needs a little help staying in line, and you prefer paraben-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free products, then Burt’s Bees is an affordable way to dip your ‘stache in the world of styling products.
Beardbrand Wax provides a medium hold for a range of mustache styles, and is made with beeswax and lanolin. But what sets this wax apart is how easily it fits in your pocket, like a tube of Chapstick. “Either apply it directly from the stick or scrape some off with your thumb to apply,” Staz says. Available for $12 in two distinct fragrances, Old Money (with oak and leather notes) and Tree Ranger (for more of a pine, eucalyptus vibe), “your nose will thank you” for unlocking its powers.
Speaking of pocketable, affordable mustache wax options, Staz shared a secret of the facial hair grooming world. “You can use Elmer’s Glue Stick as a mustache wax,” he admits. “It’s nontoxic and washable, and with three sticks for $6, it’s an incredible bang for the buck.” ’Stached Reddit users agree. So, if you’re not ready to invest in mustache wax but have some extra art supplies, give it a twirl.
Why You Should Trust Me
It is true that I don’t style a mustache. But if you’ve landed on this article, chances are pretty high that you haven’t mastered the art, either. To make up for a lack of direct, personal experience, I relied on the expertise of barbers who know their way around a ‘stache and its styling. I’m now convinced that a man with a mustache could be a great look. And women like me are no strangers to facing that facial hair up close and personal. Yes, we’re judging (hopefully in a positive way).
Oh, to be alive during the Computron’s heyday. For the unfamiliar, in the free-spirited, forward-thinking 1970s, LED watches were blowing up. One the best-known models in the wake of the 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing, Bulova Computron, signaled that the space age was upon us.
With a shocking digital watch face and smooth, monolith-like construction, Bulova Computron broke from the natty style of mechanical watches. But since everything new becomes old and then new again, the watch has carved out a niche among today’s obsessives for its “delightfully anachronistic” aesthetics, according to watch destination Hodinkee.
“Everything is chrome in the future,” SpongeBob SquarePantstold us. But what if you’re trying to grab the unique charms of this retro-futuristic moment in time and timepieces? Where can you find the best retro-cool Computron watch alternatives right now?
If finding such a watch is your mission, you’re in good company. The online watch community has a passionate fandom for these timepieces. Which, by the way, are distinct from modern LCD watches, which are cool all on their own. The light-emitting diode—LED—is a semiconductor device that first became capable of producing visible light in the ‘60s. Bulova Computron was actually predated by the equally bold Hamilton Pulsar in 1972. That funky innovation was worn by the likes of Jack Nicholson, Elton John, Sammy Davis Jr., and Keith Richards.
Roger Moore as James Bond flexing a Hamilton Pulsar P2 2900 LED digital watch in 1973’s Live and Let Die.
United Artists
You had to push a button on the side of these watches to display the time, which flashed out in red numerals. But that didn’t bother the in-the-know mod fashion types coveting them. And it didn’t bother James Bond, who showed off his own Hamilton Pulsar P2 2900 LED digital watch in the Roger Moore-era Live and Let Die (1973). Just as the Pulsar was a sign of technological upheaval, the 007 endorsement was proof that slipping on one of these glowing wristbands was the absolute height of cool.
So it’s no coincidence that the market for similar, if not the exact same, LED watches is highly active today. Below we’ve rounded up options for today’s Computron and Pulsar fans who want to showcase their own retro-cool digital watch. The space age is back, baby.
If you’re trying to cop a Computron, why not go for the real thing? Though the authentic OG Computron, like its Pulsar brethren, can only be found on the secondhand market—we suggest checking eBay—Bulova has released a new-old Computron watch as part of its Archive Series. We like the silver-tone stainless steel option, unless you’re really trying to show off that gold.
According to Bulova, the modern Computron features “a blue LED display, expanded digital functionality now with dual time zone capabilities, and a distinct retro design that is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.” Just as in the old days, the unusual trapezoid shape allows drivers to more easily see the time when they glance at their wrist. It’s also water resistant to 30 meters. Available for under $400, it’s a surprisingly affordable trip to the past.
The PSR “celebrates the launch of that revolutionary first digital watch,” says the brand. But there’s a twist. In the contemporary version, the display is an LED/LCD hybrid.
There’s no denying the sublime styling of that chunky yet sleek stainless steel case. Plus, if you’re gearing up for Bond-like adventure, this watch comes with 100-meter water resistance.
LED watches were once the hottest thing on the block, with the prices to match. But then was then, now is now. There’s no shame in grabbing the $60 Armitron Griffy, an update of the original ‘70s LED watch that makes an appearance in Netflix’s Stranger Things.
The brand offers a nice variety of color options. But for our money, the flashing red display—in black sleep mode until activated—shines gorgeously against the more minimalist stainless steel case, so why not go for gold?
A FedEx cargo plane bound for Indiana was forced to make an emergency landing at Newark Liberty International Airport on Saturday, March 1 after flames began shooting from one of its engines shortly after takeoff.
Videos circulating on social media show the Boeing 767-3S2F with one of its engines engulfed in flames as it approached Newark airport. It landed back at 8:07 a.m., just minutes after takeoff.
Subsequent videos showed the plane on the runway as fire trucks raced up to extinguish the flames.
Authorities say the incident was caused by a bird strike, but resulted in no injuries.
“FedEx Flight 3609 from Newark to Indianapolis experienced a bird strike during takeoff. Our crew declared an emergency and returned safely to Newark. We are thankful for the quick actions of our crew and first responders,” a FedEx representative told The New York Post.
It’s the latest in a series of frightening aviation incidents in the U.S. this year, including a mid-air collision in Washington D.C. between an American Airlines flight and a military helicopter that caused the deaths of 67 people and a crash landing in Toronto that flipped a Delta flight upside down but miraculously resulted in no deaths.
This is a developing story. Check back later for more information.
The hit series The White Lotus will have some stiff competition for its third episode. If you’re wondering if the newest episode of the series will conflict with the 2025 Oscars, the short answer is a big yes.
Here’s what to know about the release time and date of The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3, “The Meaning of Dreams,” and how it very much will be competing with the 97th Annual Academy Awards for attention.
What is the Release Date For The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3?
The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3 will air on HBO and start streaming on Max Sunday, March 2, 2025. The White Lotus always airs new episodes on Sundays. There will be eight episodes in Season 3 overall.
What Time Does The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3 Drop?
Unlike some other major streamers, HBO tends to drop its new episodes on Max in the evening rather than first thing in the morning. So the release time for The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3 is 9 pm ET on Sunday. This means “The Meaning of Dreams” will start streaming at 6 pm PT. So, yes, there will be some overlap if you’re trying to watch the Oscars on Sunday night, too.
The 97th Academy Awards starts at 7 pm ET on Sunday, and will likely not be over by 9 pm. That said, the Oscars is live, and, obviously, The White Lotus isn’t. So, presumably, you could binge the newest White Lotus episode anytime after 9 pm ET, or, whenever you stop watching the Oscars.
The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3 Trailer
Ahead of The White Lotus Season 3, Episode 3, HBO has just dropped a trailer for the latest installment. Things are definitely getting worse for the legal troubles of Timothy Ratliff (Jason Isaacs). Meanwhile, Laurie’s (Carrie Coon) yoga class is heating up, and Rick (Walton Goggins) is running around with a snake.
“The Meaning of Dreams” represents the 14th episode of The White Lotus overall. You can stream the entire show on Max.
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Great boots have a certain power that other shoes lack—wearing them, whether a pair of chukkas, moc toes, or a Western-inspired style, can instantly elevate even the most basic outfit. Nothing beats the power of a sharp Chelsea boot, though. These slip-on boots can be as dressy or rugged as you want them to be and are practically trend-proof. That’s why we were surprised to find a pair from Frye on sale at DSW for more than half of their original price.
The Frye Tyler Chelsea Boots are on sale for just $126 right now at DSW when you use the code LASTCALL at checkout. This will bring your total discount up to 58% off its normal price tag of $298. Shoppers have called these boots “well made” and “comfortable with good looks and great craftsmanship.” You can grab a pair in sizes 8 to 13, but you need to really consider the best size. Thick leather Chelsea boots like this pair can be hard to slip on if you have wide feet, so it may be worth sizing up.
Frye Tyler Chelsea Boots in Black, $126 (was $298) at DSW
A rugged take on traditional Chelsea boots, the Tyler model from Frye is made with beefy leather and takes traction up a notch with a thicker, lugged rubber sole. Sporting the brand’s signature distressed finish, this pair has a worn-in look that makes it appear that you’ve owned them for years—and just like traditional leather, they will get better looking with age. They have the typical pull-on elastic panels and heel tabs with a round toe for ideal comfort.
One shopper noted they “look and feel great.” They said, “I got these boots just as the snow was melting, and they are waterproof in ankle-deep water. I love the fit and the extra weathering on the toes.”
Another shopper who called the style “beautiful” said they’re made with “gorgeous leather and they have a sharp design.” They also found that sizing up helped: “When in doubt, order a size up.”
The Frye Tyler Chelsea Boots are slated to sell out fast at this price. If you want to take a chance on them, grab a pair before they’re gone.
Winter has arrived in Montana and things are getting rough for the Dutton clan in 1923. Season 2 of the Yellowstone prequel kicked things off with a grim and fraught season premiere last week—”The Killing Season”—and now, the drama will continue to unfold with 1923 Season 2, Episode 2, “The Rapist is Winter.”
Here’s the release date, time, and what to know about the plot of 1923 Season 2 Episode 2.
What is the Release Date For 1923 Season 2, Episode 2?
1923 Season 2, Episode 2 will hit Paramount+ on Sunday, March 2, 2025. All episodes of 1923 always drop on Sundays. This is the second episode of eight episodes overall this season.
What Time Does 1923 Season 2, Episode 2 Drop?
The second episode of 1923 Season 2, Episode 2 will hit Paramount+ at 12:00 AM ET. This means that technically if you’re on the West Coast, the episode will start streaming on Saturday night at 9:00 PM.
Following the events of “The Killing Season,” the second episode of 1923 Season 2 will continue the various strands of this season, though, it seems that things will get worse for the Duttons before they get better. The episode is called “The Rapist is Winter,” and it seems the plot will deliver on that provocative title.
According to an official press release from Paramount+, here’s what’s going down in this episode:
“Things get contentious at the courthouse. Spencer stays in Galveston longer than he desires. Mother Nature makes her presence known.”
So, basically, the weather is going to get worse, Spencer’s going to make some progress, but not enough, and everything else is going to be very difficult for the Duttons to manage.
Fans should keep in mind that although 1923 seems to be waiting to answer certain burning questions, this is the final season of the show. So, if certain plot points aren’t wrapping up yet, by the end of the season on April 13, all will be revealed.
Barbara Palvin, Irina Shayk, Jospehine Skriver, Taylor Hill, and Jasmine Tookes walks the runway during the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2024 at Duggal Greenhouse on October 15, 2024 in Brooklyn, New York.
A Victoria’s Secret model and her husband are in a legal battle with an exclusive members-only club in Florida.
Victoria’s Secret model Karolina Kurkova and her husband, entrepreneur Archie Drury, are in a major battle with Fisher Island Club. The exclusive members-only club in Florida is home to the rich and famous.
The legendary model and her husband have been living close to Fisher Island, Florida since 2013. They own several properties in the area, including a $6.9 million condo that they are currently attempting to sell.
However, while Karolina and her husband have built up a relationship with Fisher Island Club, it since has gone downhill – and fast.
Karolina Kurkova during 9th Annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show – Runway at The New York State Armory in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by KMazur/WireImage for Full Picture)
Karolina’s husband had his membership suspended for six months back in 2023. He was reportedly suspended for inappropriate behavior. The husband of the Victoria’s Secret model was accused of stealing a Range Rover from another member. He claims he thought it was his vehicle.
Later, Drury was reportedly caught “screaming” about another member’s boat – none other than Tom Brady – being docked in a location he didn’t like. The couple was ultimately accused of attempting to defraud the club, too.
Fast forward to today and both Drury and Kurkova have been kicked out of the club, according to reports.
They have since decided to sue the club. They believe they were “wrongfully” dismissed. They had two memberships which cost $250,000 each up front, along with annual dues of about $40,000. Drury claims that because of his dismissal, he was unable to access his boat for almost a year. The couple also believes their reputation has been harmed via the dismissal.
The club has denied any wrongdoing and is standing by its dismissal decision.
“The Fisher Island Club looks forward to defending each of its challenged actions in detail in court filings as appropriate,” the club said.
The three text messages guys should ‘never’ send women.
Getty Images/Bauer-Griffin
Dating has always been hard, but it feels even harder in today’s age, with endless apps, social media platforms and more. The seemingly limitless amount of options can be overwhelming, and confusing, for most of us out there.
Blaine Anderson, a dating coach for men, is here to help guys navigate the scary waters of romance. The professional dating coach, who has appeared on “Shark Tank,” has developed a big platform on social media. The “Matchmaker & Dating Coach For Men” has more than 700,000 followers on her Instagram account.
The professional dating coach gives a lot of tips to guys through her social media platform, including a list of three text messages that should “never” be sent.
Blaine Anderson tells men the three text messages that should never be sent.
Blaine Anderson.
Texting can be one of the most difficult aspects of dating, especially early on. You don’t want to text too much, but you don’t want to text too little, either. Anderson believes that there’s a good balance – and three texts that should “never” be sent.
The first text message that should “never” be sent: “Why didn’t you respond?”
Anderson says that if you have to ask a woman you’re interested in why she’s not responding to you, that means she’s not interested. You would think that’s common knowledge at this point, though many still struggle with it.
“Move on,” Anderson says.
The second text message that Anderson says should “never” be sent is: “Will you be my girlfriend?”
If you’re going to ask someone to be in a relationship, do not do it over text message. This is a conversation that you should be having face-to-face.
And finally, the third text message: “We should hang out sometime.”
If you want to take a woman out on a date, be specific and make a plan. There are few things a woman dislikes more than a vague hangout question. It shows a lack of confidence from the man and a lack of a plan. Instead, be direct and come up with a specific idea.
A former college basketball star has died from cancer at 26 years old.
The 2024-25 NCAA men’s basketball season is heating up. We’re a little more than two weeks away from Selection Sunday and less than three weeks away from the start of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. It’s one of the best times of the year to be a sports fan.
Tragically, the college basketball world is mourning the loss of a former college hoops star. A former college basketball All-Conference performer passed away on Thursday, following a long battle with cancer.
Former Stony Brook and University of Miami star Elijah Olaniyi has died.
A former NCAA Tournament star has died. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Olaniyi died on Thursday following a more than year-long battle with brain cancer. He was an All-America East performer for Stony Brook and became a key contributor for the Miami Hurricanes during his lone season with the program.
The former college hoops star played briefly overseas following his time in college, before retiring from the game.
Olaniyi said that he first started noticing symptoms when he was waking up with nosebleeds. He later found out that he was actually suffering from seizures related to the brain cancer.
“I remember waking up with a nosebleed,” Olaniyi said in January 2024, via an interview with The Statesman. “Now, I’m getting the information that I was actually having a seizure. And then right after, I had to go to practice.”
Stony Brook officially confirmed his passing on Thursday evening.
“Earlier today, our Seawolves family lost one of our own when Elijah Olaniyi passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Elijah will live on in the hearts and minds of all who loved him. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends,” they wrote on X.
Earlier today, our Seawolves family lost one of our own when Elijah Olaniyi passed away after a courageous battle with cancer.
Elijah will live on in the hearts and minds of all who loved him. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends ❤️ pic.twitter.com/0TQ7tLY7Gd
The former 6-foot-5 forward was the America East Rookie of the Year during the 2017-18 season. He was later named first-team all-conference as a junior when he averaged 18.0 points per game.
He played at Miami in 2020-21, averaging 10.5 points in 21 games for the Hurricanes, before transferring back to Stony Brook for his final season.
